On Tuesday, July 23, 2024 members of CPOF’s National Honor Guard Team traveled to Okemah, Oklahoma for the funeral services of Corporal Robert Sumner.
Photographed is Officer Brian James presenting Corporal Sumner’s young son Avery with a CPOF Challenge coin.
Please continue to keep this family in your thoughts and prayers.
Robert William Sumner, lovingly known as Robby, was a devoted Corporal in the Department of Corrections who dedicated his life to serving and protecting others. His was not just a job but a passion that he embraced wholeheartedly. With a heart full of compassion and determination, Robby touched the lives of many through his self-service.
Born on May 4, 1993, in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, Robby’s journey on this earth came to a sudden and tragic end on July 14, 2024, in Meeker, Oklahoma. He passed away in a motor vehicle accident while on duty with the Department of Corrections. His untimely death is considered as falling in the line of duty, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his responsibilities.
Robby’s vibrant personality shone brightly through his love for family and new-found faith in God. He prioritized his relationships with loved ones above all else and was known for his adoration of life and children. His presence brought joy and warmth to those around him, leaving an indelible mark on everyone he met.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Charles Joe Sumner and Michelle Darlene Sumner.
Apart from his loving wife, Autumn Rain Sumner, who now carries their unborn child, Robby is survived by his son, Avry Eatherly of Ponca City, OK; his father Jimmy Joe Sumner & wife Martha of Twin Hills, OK; his mother Patty Eatherly of California; six siblings – Christy Hanzelka, Suzanna Moore, Ceejae Canaday, Mariah Barrier, Tyler Williams, and Stormy Sumner; as well as a wide circle of extended family members and friends who cherished him deeply.
Among those mourning Robby’s loss are his father-in-law Richard Seaborn and mother-in-law Mandi Seaborn; uncle John Sumner & wife Sarah; uncle Adam Eatherly & wife Ann; aunt Tammy Bancroft; along with numerous other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, colleagues from work family at the Department of Corrections, and friends whose lives he enriched with his kindness.
In addition to being a dedicated professional in uniform serving his community enforced by a strong work ethic and sense of duty each day – Robby had diverse interests outside of work. A skilled computer coder with a love for the great outdoors showed the depth of character behind the uniform.
The legacy left behind by Robby reflects a life lived fully with love at its core. His memory will forever remain engraved in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him. As we bid farewell to this remarkable soul taken from us all too soon may we find solace in the memories shared and continue to honor his spirit through acts of kindness towards one another.
Rest in peace Corporal Robert William “Robby” Sumner – your presence will be sorely missed yet fondly remembered for eternity.